‘Love Cruise’ Sets Sail Today on Fox

Fox, the network that gave us “Temptation Island,” goes sailing in search of another hit with “Love Cruise: The Maiden Voyage,” which premieres tonight. It’s a cut above the sheer silliness of “Temptation,” which isn’t saying much. We’re guessing young adults with time on their hands will watch out of curiosity. Discerning viewers should book passage on another network.

Created by the producers of “The Real World” and “Road Rules,” this unscripted series opens with 16 eligible men and women aboard a ship bound for Aruba.

In each episode, the singles pair up and compete in a series of challenges designed to test their compatibility. Those getting voted off at the end of each show will cool their heels in Aruba and wait for the final two couples, one of whom will win $200,000 and a trip around the world.

Tonight, we meet Lisa, who is pretty but highly insecure. She finds a friend in Gina, who makes catty remarks about Toni, a voluptuous blond who shamelessly flaunts her figure.

Meanwhile, several ladies are attracted to Anthony, a “starving artist” with elaborate tattoos. His competition includes Michael, a lawyer who says he “wants to build relationships,” and Ralph, a self-confident bond trader who proclaims he’s the “coolest guy on the ship.” Cool? No. Annoying, yes.

Most of the singles hit it off as friends in the early going. That’s bound to change as the voyage continues. With money at stake, someone is going to turn on the others. That’s just the way these shows work. No conflict means no ratings.

If that’s your idea of fun, so be it. Otherwise, jump overboard while you can.

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“Love Cruise: The Maiden Voyage” can be seen tonight at 9 on Fox. The network has rated it TV-PG-LS (may be unsuitable for young children with special advisories for coarse language and sex).